THE Saints forward line will be one of the quickest in the competition this season with former Sydney forward Trent Dennis-Lane, combining with Terry Milera and Ahmed Saad with purpose in the 26-point win against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.
While Beau Maister, formerly Beau Wilkes, presents as a tall option, it is the speedy and fleet-footed forwards at his feet that will provide the most danger to opposition clubs this season.
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On his day, Dennis-Lane can kick a bag of goals, not dissimilar to that of veteran Stephen Milne, who dominated in an intra-club match prior to the NAB Cup.
This will be St Kilda’s biggest strength entering the 2013 season.
Other than that, it was pretty much business as usual for the Saints. James Gwilt provided his usual rebound from defence, Nick Dal Santo was the most dangerous midfielder on the ground while Farren Ray and Jack Steven provided some highlights on the ball.
In its other game against the Power, it did struggle in the heat. Ruckman Tom Hickey proved a valuable addition and was probably the Saints best in that game along with Leigh Montagna and Tom Lee.
Lee, was who picked up as a mature age recruit from the WAFL, was certainly a valuable contributor and may well add another all option up in the forward line as insurance perhaps for Nick Riewoldt.
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Saints coach Scott Watters said prior to the opening NAB Cup clash that the club didn’t aim to win it but instead trial its youngsters. It had that feel about it for the Saints and Watters may be surprised with just how much the club took away with it after a glossy win against the Crows.
St Kilda rested such stars as Riewoldt and Lenny Hayes, who Watters said will be nursed through the pre-season matches.